Cultural and creative leaders

What is the Cultural and Community Leaders (CCL) programme?

The Cultural and Community Leaders (CCL) programme is part of building a participatory cultural ecosystem within Trenčín 2026. It connects active citizens with the city’s cultural programme — turning audiences into active co-creators. Cultural and Community Leaders identify community needs, connect them with artistic initiatives, and help bring the voices of citizens directly into the European Capital of Culture programme.

What will you do as a Cultural and Community Leader?

1. You will connect people in your community through art, culture, neighbourhood, or civic initiatives.
2. You will help map the needs of your surroundings and take part in planning cultural events.
3. You will maintain contact between your community and the Trenčín 2026 programme.
4. You can help organise local meetings, community festivals, participatory projects, or grant calls.
5. If you want — you can even propose your own project.

Who are we looking for?

1. People of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences who know their neighbourhood or community.
2. Those who want to contribute to positive change in the city through dialogue, curiosity, and collaboration.
3. You don’t have to be an expert — all you need is motivation, openness, and the desire to get involved.

What will you gain?

1. Introductory training in community and cultural leadership.
2. Access to trainings, workshops, experts, and support from the Trenčín 2026 team.
3. The chance to contribute to real cultural and community change.
4. Recognition for your work — a certificate, mentoring, consultations, and a symbolic reward.
5. Connections with other leaders in the city and abroad.

How to get involved?

1. Fill in the application form.
2. The first introductory meeting for new CCLs will take place in September 2025.
3. The “Autumn School of Community and Cultural Leadership” training will take place in October – November 2025.
4. The programme runs until 2026 and is linked to various activities of Trenčín 2026.

Contact:

Community Activities Coordinator: Emma Šteiningerová
emma.steiningerova@trencin2026.eu
+421 915 438 060